Egypt's Kung Fu fighter Mohamed Youssef defended himself after a recent suspension from international duty, stressing that wearing the Rabaa sign was a message of 'loyalty and sympathy' for the whole world.

The Egyptian Kung Fu Association suspended Youssef from his next international match after he sent a clear message of support for ousted president Mohamed Morsi at the World Championship in Russia.

The Kung Fu player, who could also face a life-time ban, wore a T-shirt publicising the pro-Morsi four-finger Rabaa sign while receiving his gold medal at the World Championship in Russia.

"It was a message of loyalty and sympathy I wanted to deliver to the whole world," Youssef told the Anadolu news agency on Monday, referring to his solidarity with the hundreds who died during the violent mid-August dispersal of two pro-Morsi protest camps in Cairo and Giza.

"What I did does not conflict with my representation of Egypt in the upcoming tournament, however I am concerned about the Kung Fu Association's decisions against me," the gold medallist added, stressing that he thanks all who supported his actions.

Earlier on Monday, Kung Fu Association executive officer Gamal El-Jazzar told Ahram Arabic news website that Youssef will be banned from representing Egypt in the upcoming Kung Fu World Championship, which kicks off on 27 November in Kuala Lumpur.

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David Axeworthy, London

29-10-2013 01:12pm

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I salute this man

I salute this man for his moral courage.

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Morgusm Shubra, Cairo

29-10-2013 09:04am

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Bravo

Bravo for the great manof principles. Only great men and women have the courage to stand up for what is right. Fascism in Egypt must be fought relentlessly.